Iberostar Selection Holguin: Not quite what we expected...

... from a hotel that is still in its first year from opening. We had been in Holguin three times before, and were wanting to try the new Iberostar thinking the management would be going all out not only to display the brand new fresh property, but also to offer service that would help build up a clientele. We were right in some, but wrong in many ways: The goods: - The facilities are new, rooms spacious and A/C works wonderfully without noise at night, resulting in an extremely comfortable  [... read more]sleep - The beach portion at Pesquero is nice, and very necessary as the portion next to hotel (facing the bay) is very nice when the water is clear, but almost unusuable when the water is dirty/murky which happens a lot at low tide. The bads: - Staff is definitely in need of a lot more training, both from a pleasant service aspect AND an efficiency aspect. A few restricted staff were extremely pleasant, and talking to them you soon realized they were the few experienced ones (i.e. bartender from beach bar)... to highlight the lack of efficacy, on 2 separate days, it took more than 1 hour to get our snacks at the beach snackbar (and I was alone with my wife !). In addition, people were getting aggressive around the main lobby bar after dinner as it could take 15 min to get served. - Although nice, the site is way too big for its content (a lot of free, unused free space), and for some strange reason, all usable spaces such as the pool, the outdoor patio are all cramped up and were designed too small for the size of resort (the place was 75% occupied and readily space was tight). - Disclosure: I am diabetic; another unpleasant surprise was that no diet sodas were available on the premises even if diet sodas were available in surrounding resorts (not a supply issue, which sometimes happen in Cuba with salads and fruits). After speaking to management, I was told I would receive 2 cans/day for the reminder of the weeks (5 days), and ended up only getting 2 cans/day for 3 days... very disappointing as I made sure they understood this was not a "taste preference" but a must for a health condition. (I am definitely not dead, but could not enjoy as many Cuba Libre as I would have wanted on a vacation ;-P ) Notice for snorkeling lovers: Holguin was great as the catamarans would usually bring you to a Coral barrier just on the other side of the bay (10 min away). Apparently the new management for the catamaran crew across resorts has decided to shut this down... not any resort's fault, but another let down All in all, not a horrendous experience, but definitely left a bitter impression... Would not recommend this hotel, and would stick to older venues around with a more organized and lively setting (i.e. Playa Pesquero). Sebastien

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: Amazing resort

Great experience I love it with hotel food and people was amazing for sure in the future will go there again I will recomend it to people to go there is amazing you will have great time will recomend to go to Robert he is a tour guy will help you to set up a tour for you he is amazing

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: Not a great resort - would not recommen it

The only nice thing about the resort was the beach. I have been to Cuba many times, but food selection was the same everyday, ran out of ice cream, desert selection same and not a huge amount, fruit same everyday and some days only a few bowls offered at breakfast/super. Waiter staff was good. Service at reception was poor, had to wait over an hour to check in when only two people working and they knew a bus load of people coming. Air conditioner in room was leaking to the point floor was [... read more] soaked with water and had to get it fixed 3 times until final stopped leaking, bathtub was stained with black spots. Were a lot of locals in the resort vacationing and found many of them to be rude and pushy and even though I was in line first, the bar staff would wait on them first. For the bar in the lobby, the line was huge to get a drink at night time and I don't ever remember having to wait in such a long line ever at other resorts. Lobby needs fans for circulation as it is very hot even at night time. There is only a breeze at certain times. Entertainment at night wasn't the greatest. Best nights were in the lobby and the water show. Cuban show was awful (not the greatest dancing) and disappointing as you are in Cuba. Again I have been to Cuba many times and had no complaints.

Aston Costa Verde Beach Resort: Dream vacation

As a first timer to try an all inclusive vacation away from home, it was everything that I dreamed of. The hotel rooms were great and cleaned every day and food is excellent, roast pork that was cook in fire was the best. And the best and most important of all are the staff, friendly, nice, courteous and trustworthy. A very great experience! I would like to come back soon!

Club Amigo Atlantico Guardalavaca: Worst time ever

Absolutely worst Cuban experience I have been to many places in Cuba and I have stayed at club Amigo Atlantico Guardalavaca before and I was treated like shit Over crowded with Cubans I have a new look on Cuban people and how rude and pigs they are No food at breakfast lunch and dinner as they load up 3 plates at a time I ended up having to eat off site I will never stay at a club Amigo again So disappointed Tripcentral should have posted that the hotel was 95% Cubans in August 4 [... read more]% Russians and 1% everyone else Shame on tripcentral I will never use tripcentral again

Aston Costa Verde Beach Resort: Beautiful resorts

Hotel is great nice room , good for couples and families to stay,dining is okey but we’re expecting that Asian restaurant is open .i think only 3 dining is open. People are very friendly and the place is wonderful.

Sol Turquesa Beach: A good time had!

Overall very good. We went in late August early July. The resort wasn't very full,except for the weekends when there was an influx of Cubans. The room was quite large, the water always worked, nice balcony, only the bed was a little lacking. The food was good at the buffet and usually there were no lines, a lot of options. In the snack bars the options were limited usually to hot dogs and sandwiches. Good bars, I preferred the lobby bar. The pools are great and so is the beach. The beach is shal [... read more]low, and there is sea grass. But the water nice and warm. Snorkeled a bit, not too many fish close to the shore. The service was good, the hotel is quiet located by itself. Overall happy! Sidenote: A lot of toads. My girlfriend has a phobia. And not ever night but a lot, a toad would climb three sets of stairs to terrorize her. It was a bit amusing for me, not her though.

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: worst place we went to in cuba

Hotel is old, buffet is horrible, no variety, poor quality of food, entertainment very badly done, allowing locals to come, they are rude, cutting in line, no respect for tourists, need more bartenders, had to wait for over 10 minutes to be served a drink, the hotel staff entered my room without permission and took away our bed, left my room door open and told the office that I moved to another room, no communication between hotel staff, asked to see hotel manager for over 5 days and gave my roo [... read more]m number, no one contacted me, had to make an appointment to see her, never saw her , never saw hotel managers walking around, like at other hotels, would not give us a receipt at the end of our stay, never saw out hola sun rep, so I could talk to them. Went to a destination wedding , could not wait to go home.

Sol Turquesa Beach: NOT a 4 star!!!!

We went during low season and it was terrible! The first few days our maid did not properly clean, the new one who came on for the last few days named Claudia was fantastic however. Claudia cleaned our room properly and was a real gem, I just wish she had been our maid the whole week! I hurt my ankle right before we left for the trip (not the resort's fault), and while sometimes I could get a golf cart to take me to my room, it really depended on who was driving! Which it shouldn't have  [... read more]in the least. Some drivers were accommodating and helpful, others weren't. There were multiple pools, all of which were cleaned everyday at 6pm, which on the one hand was great because they were cleaned and chlorinated every single day, the not so great part was that they couldn't be used after 6pm every day. Lots of sand fleas at the beach (which is typical for allot of beaches, just make sure you bring bug spray with you, which we did and it worked well to keep the bites to a minimum). There are tiny reddish ants that one should also be careful about as their bite burns more then a tattoo! Not sure what repels them, as our bug spray didn't, so we just looked before we sat anywhere and always wore shoes (even in our hotel room as they were in there too). It's 20CUC per person to take a bus into the town from the resort and there is nothing other than the resort within walking distance. The only phenomenal part was an excursion we booked to see the archaeological site. We had a gentleman named Alehandro and he was AMAZING! He went above and beyond the entire tour, I truly couldn't have asked for better! Thankfully he told us on our tour that none of the spiders in Cuba were deadly so I wasn't AS terrified when I came across a tarantula the size of a grown man's hand on the path at the resort a few evenings later, I just carefully went around it. I'm a simple eater, certainly not a foodie and typically happy with rice or beans or lentils, any kind of vegetable and some form of meat. However even I had trouble finding food to eat, as the buffet was HORRIBLE! I've been to Cuba multiple times, I bring my own condiments and like I said I have simple tastes, but this place was appalling! Meat, shellfish and fish should be kept either hot or cold, but they'd just leave everything out and it'd be tepid. The scrambled eggs in the morning were runny and I found egg shells in them (while eating them). Milk and yogurt were left in jugs on the buffet line with nothing to keep them cool so they didn't spoil. The a la carte restaurants had menus, but weren't able to follow them as they ran out of ingredients like tomatoes (not kidding, one of the starters was tomato slices, cheese and meat, and we were told they were all out of tomatoes. Everyone we travelled with was super sick (we returned Tuesday afternoon, and as of Thursday night their still suffering with stomach issues). Since 3 of the travellers didn't drink at all, and we were careful about heat and sun it wasn't from any of those reasons, which only leaves some form of contagious illness or bad food... They constantly ran out of foods at the snack and beach bars, and the snack bar that was advertised as being open 24hours, only the bar part was, NOT the food part. One day my son and daughter fell asleep after being at the beach for the afternoon and we missed the dinner buffet, I went to get them a snack when they woke up at 10pm and I was told all the kitchens on the resort were closed and we'd have to wait till morning to get them even a piece of fruit. To have absolutely NO options not even a store I could buy them something at and to have to sit with 2 small, hungry children for a night was NOT okay! I will NEVER EVER RETURN!!!!!!

Sol Turquesa Beach: Beautiful, Massive Resort!

This is a beautiful Resort! If you like the water, then look no more! Many pools and Ocean to swim in. Rooms are clean and nice. The entertainment was pretty good to watch and fun, if you participate. Food is your average Cuban bland food. My only complaint would be to put some ceiling fans in the lobby and buffet! Too hot without fans or A.C..

Brisas Guardalavaca: Average

This was the third time I was at this hotel and had a lot of trouble with the room the first room we got the bathroom ceiling was leaking the second room they gave us the smell was so bad of sewage you couldn't stand to stay in the room the third room they gave us the fridge wasn't working and the air wasn't working but decided to stay because were so tired of changing rooms . I don't think that we would return to this hotel maybe try a new area altogether but also like to add that the staff w [... read more]as very pleasant and tried their best we have been to Cuba many many times and never have we ever had to change are room

Playa Pesquero: Average Resort

The beach is beautifully kept and grounds are nicely maintained. Lots of shady areas and hammocks to lounge. Food was not bad, but was told many times there were shortages of food and we couldn’t get what was listed in the menu. The service isn’t the greatest here. Staff seems to be upset when approached. Rooms were comfortable. Bottle water supplies were limited. No AC anywhere else in the resort except rooms. The lobby, restaurants, clubs were a bit uncomfortable due to low ceili [... read more]ngs, no ceiling fans, therefore limited airflow - could just be the time fo year (July). Pool needs to be cleaned (thick scum around the pool) and some areas to be repaired. No wifi except the lobby and it’s paid by the hour. May be a good thing as it forces a getaway from technology. Overall an okay resort but not sure I’d return.

Club Amigo Atlantico Guardalavaca: great resort

clean,staff are fantastic, food is simple yet very good. the resort is spread over a large area with lots to see there is a public market located right beside also a medical clinic is located on the resort

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Amazing Royal and Luxury Stay at PRDO!

We went for the first two weeks of July for our 30th anniversary on the Royal Service section. We were blessed with sunny days during the entire stay and a full moon! Even with hot and humid weather conditions, we were able to cool off on the beautiful quiet and private beach. We started every day at the beach to finish at the pool. Both areas are well maintained and excellent bar service was provided! Bartenders would go around to take your orders and would prepare the best tropical drinks  [... read more]ever! From Royal mojitos to piña coladas, all were delicious! Thank you to Olga, Marieles, Arnaldo, Osmani, and two other terrific ladies! At this resort, you will definitely find excellent food and service in all the restaurants especially at Los helechos royal service restaurant! The lobsters langoustines and shrimps were the best we have ever tasted! Thank you to the nicest group of ladies who took excellent care of our food and preferences; Yanelis, Nirma, Esperanza, Olga, Yudelkis, Lesmarie and all the the rest of the staff working in the restaurant! You are the best!!! People working at this resort are so kind and efficient! Their hospitality were at the top! (Sorry for not remembering all the names.) The entire area was well maintained and very clean. Our room service was impeccable; the maids with their beautiful art figures with the towels, the concierge people with their attentive service and advice, the butlers especially Rolando, Yunior, and Hector, were among the most professional we have ever seen. Thank you for looking into all of our special requests! The jacuzzi set ups were the highlights of our stay! The bar fridge was filled every day and personalized according to our needs and preferences, thank you to David and his team, same for the turn down service just the best! If you need a lift to the main lobby, no problem at this resort, they have carts going around and the drivers are very nice and polite! If you wish to visit the market in Guardalavaca, there’s a train available on a daily basis at a small fee. We opted for a horse and buggy ride with Adelquis, a licensed driver, and Alacrãn, his horse, at a reasonable price. It was a very nice way to get to see the rural countryside of Cuba. It was beautiful! Thank you Adelquis for your expertise and professionalism! We also did get a chance to meet Jose, the catamaran captain, very knowledgeable and full of life! He gave us a three beautiful and adventurous rides on the ocean! Two rides on two different calm days were very nice! The last one was more rocky due to the wind and waves but it was fun! “Merci Jose!” We also did some snorkelling in the beach area! Beautiful and interesting world this ocean has to offer! There were classical and Cuban entertainers in the evening, which was a nice way to end another the day in Paradise! We also went to the spa for a relaxing part of a day and massage! Aaaahhh... the best! Beautiful salted pool and private beach, it’s a must! Thank you to the entire team for making our 30th anniversary memorable and very pleasant! The manager, Lina, was very attentive to our needs. She was very helpful and professional! Thank you Lina! We made special connections with many of the staff members. We are definitely considering going back! This resort is highly recommended! We are looking forward to our next return and to practice our Spanish with all of you and impress our Spanish teacher Yanelis! 😘 Sincerely, Natalie and Pierre

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Paradisus Rio De Oro (Melia chain) --- Great Resort!

The Hotel service and grounds were excellent. The rooms were kept very clean and the food was excellent especially a la carte restaurants. Beaches were very nice, always finding availability spots to suntan. However although the ocean is stunningly beautiful, unfortunately there were many rocks in the ocean making it almost impossible to enjoy it unless you wear water protection shoes. With the shoes, you can enjoy the ocean swims thoroughly. We do recommend this hotel, and we would grade  [... read more]it as a 4.5 star. Hope this helps for you to make a decision!

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Dream vacation

This is my third time in this amazing resort within a year! I always go for two weeks to totally emerge into its beauty and serenity. I have just came back this past weekend and what I miss now is in the following order: coral reef, right off the shore where I snorkel every day for couple of hours, friendly and hard working staff (Damisel, Beach Bar, Yamilet, Lobby Bar, Addanis, Sale Manager, Delmis and Alexandro from entertainment team, Catamaran Crew at the Nautical Cabana on the Esmeralda b [... read more]each and many others...My dear Cuban friends, without you this and all previous vacations in the resort wouldn't be sooo perfect. And since Cuba can't come to me I will be back to see you guys as soon as I can. I am fortunate to have found my new home in this tropical paradise! Muchos gracias! Suzana

Don Lino Hotel: D☀ NOT UNDERESTIMATE A 2*!!!

If you want QUAINT,SERENE,TRANQUILITY surrounded by the white sand ocean Don Lino beach,and natural greenery of Cuba, then this villa living is for you!!! With a small pool but BIG OCEAN, it totally reminded me of cottage living, including a staff full of smiles!! A much much quaint smaller version of a fast pace bigger resort, with everything you need!! I would return in a heartbeat!!!

Aston Costa Verde Beach Resort: Amazing Beach & Snorkeling

If you have mobility issues you want to be in the older section. We were at this resort 3 times 10 - 12 years ago. We found it charming then and we find it charming now, One must consider that this is a third world, communist country with food shortages. Having said that; they do an incredible job with what they have. There was a lot of fish, which I don't eat, but I always managed to find something to eat. If you stay in the new part, it has its own pool but it is a bit of a hike to the [... read more] buffet. There is some great landscaping though. While the shows are similar to other places you might have been they are still entertaining. Funny enough there is a cigar bar where you cannot smoke due to improper ventilation. I think they should have a few outdoor tables and chair sets for folks to test the wares. Having said all of that. we got away form $709 pp and definitely feel that we came out on top. You not only get the world's best beaches, you get the world's most beautiful people.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Resort is Outstanding!!

We just got back from a week vacation here, and all I can say is there is a reason why we will be returning again if I have it my way. Staff are so nice and accommodating in every way. The Food was amazing. The entertainment staff were excellent as well. Thank you Cesar for what you do to make it fun there. Sergio & Victor out in the Outside Bar/Restaurant are very personable and quick!!

Paradisus Rio De Oro: excellent for cuba

this is an adults only high end resort. you don't wear a wrist band the food was good in both the buffet and ala cartes and the cuban people friendly the weather was hot and no rain during the day unfortunately it was windy most of the week which made snorkeling difficult. the beach was great and you can walk for a kilometer. the entry into the water is rocky and you have to walk down a bit to get in. there is also a 2 ft drop off to go down to get into the water the pool is large and the w [... read more]ater was warm bring a bubba or thermos for drinks. most of the drinks are served in tiny plastics cups our room was nice with plenty of hot water for showers btw there is no bathtub i didn't like the multiple levels in the room my only issue was the nightly entertainment, i would have preferred more english music. the scuba diving was free and you have to take a bus to the dive center. because the conditions were windy we didn't visit the best sites but the diving was good and the staff and dive masters were friendly and professional given the price and the free scuba diving i would definitely return